AGI Acquired By Y Entertainment

Artist Group International has inked an acquisition deal with investment firm The Yucaipa Companies that will merge the longtime independent agency with Yucaipa’s Y Entertainment Group.

AGI will continue to be led by founder Dennis Arfa, who noted the new association with Yucaipa will position the agency to “create new opportunities for both AGI and its clients.”

On the Yucaipa side, the agreement will see the addition of longtime entertainment, investment and management executive Rick Stevens, CEO of Y Entertainment.

“The live experience cannot be digitized or replicated and thrives in the face of the profound changes that have affected other facets of the music business,” Stevens said. “AGI is quite simply the best independent agency in the world and we are excited to welcome Dennis and his team.”

Artists on the AGI roster include Billy Joel, Metallica, Rod Stewart, Linkin Park, Rush, Def Leppard, Rammstein and Motley Crue, among others.